Malawi ex-army chief arrested over arms trafficking

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Malawi has arrested retired General Paul Valentino Phiri, the former commander of the Malawi Defence Force, over allegations of facilitating illegal arms trafficking linked to the war in Sudan.

Phiri, 54, faces five counts, including abuse of office and dealing in “terrorist property.” The ACB said the charges stem from his alleged role in facilitating illegal arms trafficking in June and July 2025, while he was still serving as MDF commander. He was arrested when he reported to ACB offices in Lilongwe on Thursday.

The arrest follows a July investigation by the Platform for Investigative Journalism (PIJ) which reported unverified allegations, based on purported US intelligence, that top Malawi military personnel may have helped Sudanese rebels acquire heavy weaponry. The ACB had received a complaint alleging US intelligence believed Malawi officers were involved in secretly funnelling weapons to Sudan.

The weapons were allegedly destined for Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been locked in war with Sudan’s regular army since April 2023. Sudan’s army has accused the UAE of supporting the RSF with weapons sent via Chad, Libya, Kenya and Somalia. The UAE denies this.

If substantiated, Malawi would become the latest country drawn into a sprawling network of arms transfers fuelling the war.

Phiri’s lawyer, Powell Nkutabasa, said the main allegations were misuse of office, contravening procurement procedures and dealing in “terrorist” property. Phiri appeared at Area 3 Court in Lilongwe on Thursday, but the hearing was abruptly postponed to Friday, October 2, with no official reason. His lawyer said: “I was prepared for court, but we have been advised to come tomorrow.”

He was held in police custody overnight.

The Malawi Defence Force previously confirmed it was aware of the allegations and had been approached by the ACB but could not comment further. The case has drawn international attention to Malawi’s alleged role in Sudan’s civil war and is expected to send shockwaves through the country’s security establishment.

SOURCE: AFP